Chapter ten: Way of the Mind
The moonlight spilled through the gaps in the curtains, casting an ethereal glow over Izuku's room. In the silent hours of the night, as the city slumbered, Izuku Midoriya drifted into a restless sleep. Unbeknownst to him, his consciousness was about to embark on another journey within the confines of his own mind.
As Izuku's eyes closed in the physical world, he found himself standing in the familiar void where he often encountered Black Eagle. The enigmatic figure materialized, his presence radiating an eerie yet commanding aura.
"You've got potential, kid," Black Eagle spoke, his voice echoing in the mental landscape. "But potential alone won't make you strong. We need to work on the basics first."
Izuku, still getting accustomed to these peculiar dream-like encounters, nodded attentively. "Basics? Like what?"
Black Eagle circled Izuku, assessing him with an analytical gaze. "Hand-to-hand combat. In a world filled with quirks, people tend to forget the importance of physical prowess. You'll face opponents who can counter your every move with their abilities. That's where your body comes into play."
With a flick of his hand, Black Eagle conjured a sparring mat, the surface cool and smooth beneath their feet. The training commenced, a seamless blend of punches, kicks, and evasive maneuvers. Black Eagle demonstrated techniques with a fluidity that spoke of a mastery honed over millennia.
"Your quirk is a weapon, but you must be a weapon without it," Black Eagle emphasized, his movements swift and precise. "Feel the rhythm of the fight, anticipate your opponent's actions. A hero isn't just about flashy powers; it's about adaptability and resilience."
Izuku absorbed the teachings, attempting to replicate the intricate sequences. Despite the ethereal setting, he could feel the strain in his muscles, the subtle ache that hinted at progress.
As the training continued, Black Eagle offered guidance and correction. The mental realm became an arena of growth, a place where the boundaries between mentor and student blurred. The moon cast its luminescence over this metaphysical training ground, witnessing the forging of a connection that extended beyond the physical plane.
By the time Izuku awoke in the real world, he felt a subtle shift in his perception of combat. The moonlight lingered outside, and though his body was fatigued, a newfound determination sparked within him. Little did he know that the lessons learned in the realm of dreams would soon be put to the test in the waking world.
Izuku descended the stairs, the scent of breakfast wafting through the air. The morning sun painted the kitchen in warm hues as his mother, Inko Midoriya, moved about with the grace of routine. However, her cheerful humming ceased as she turned to see her son approaching.
"Mom, I'm awake," Izuku greeted, attempting to sound nonchalant. He couldn't ignore the tension knotting in his stomach.
"In the kitchen, sweetie!" Inko called back, her voice carrying a motherly warmth.
Izuku hesitated before entering, glancing at his reflection in the hallway mirror. The subtle black strands now woven into his green hair and the striking white hue of his right eye caught his attention. The changes were undeniable, and he grappled with the best way to explain.
Entering the kitchen, he tried to muster a smile. "Morning, Mom. What's for breakfast?"
Inko turned, her eyes widening slightly at the sight of her son's altered appearance. "Izuku, what happened to your hair, and your eye...?"
Izuku scratched the back of his head, a nervous habit that betrayed his unease. "Uh, funny story, Mom. You know how sometimes weird things happen in dreams? Well, I had this dream, and—"
"In dreams?" Inko interrupted, a mix of concern and disbelief etched on her face.
"Yeah, dreams can be strange, right?" Izuku chuckled awkwardly, attempting to downplay the oddity. "Anyway, I guess it's just one of those things. Nothing to worry about!"
Inko regarded him with a motherly scrutinization, her eyes narrowing in a way that suggested she wasn't entirely convinced. "Izuku, are you sure you're okay? You're not hurt anywhere?"
"No, no, I'm fine, Mom. Just a weird dream, like I said." Izuku offered a reassuring smile, though the unease lingered beneath the surface.
Inko sighed, her expression softening. "Alright, dear. If you say so. But if anything feels off, you'll let me know, won't you?"
Izuku nodded, appreciating the concern in his mother's voice. "Of course, Mom. I promise."
The breakfast table became a temporary haven from the unspoken uncertainties. Inko, ever the caring mother, continued her attempts to lighten the mood, engaging in small talk about the day ahead. Yet, as Izuku chewed his food, the weight of the mysterious changes clung to him.
The morning sun, oblivious to the intricacies of dreams and transformations, illuminated the Midoriya household. Little did they know that the journey of shadows and revelations had only just begun.